Record number of passengers arrive in Bahrain for 2017 F1 race

Manama, Apr. 22 (BNA): Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), the operator and managing body of Bahrain International Airport (BIA), announced record passenger arrivals for this year’s Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. The estimated number of people coming to the country to watch and participate in this year’s race was 15,041, a 16% jump compared to the previous year, in which more than 13,000 passengers visited. The successful handling of this influx of visitors followed preparations taken in cooperation with relevant airport stakeholders, which included ensuring the timely landing of passengers and cargo via regular, additional, and chartered flights, as well as all associated logistical challenges. “The Formula One race is our most demanding event, both in terms of volume and logistical challenges,” said Bahrain Airport Company Chief Commercial Officer, Ayman Zainal. “The streamlined processes we have put in place have proven that the airport is capable of handling all the requirements of such large-scale events. We hope that this will help the Kingdom attract further high profile international events because, from an aviation and logistics point of view, the country is more than prepared. This was another great year for Formula One racing in Bahrain, and we wish the event further success in the years to come.” With over 500 million viewers tuning in from all over the globe, and another 100,000 fans attending the annual race, the Formula One event has served to place Bahrain at the forefront of Grand Prix racing, adding growth to its tourism sector, and bolstering its economy in line with the Kingdom's 2030 vision. BAC is the authority responsible for enhancing BIA and increasing the airport’s contribution to the local economy in line with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030. In its operational role, BAC is responsible for elevating the airport’s operations, infrastructure and services. This is set to improve BIA’s capabilities and cater to the growing number of passengers as well as the changing demands of stakeholders.